Texas betting apps provide a viable alternative as the wait continues for legal sports betting in the state. Efforts to legalize and regulate it have fallen short in recent years, but hopes remain that progress will be made on the legislative front before too long.
In the meantime, alternatives such as legal daily fantasy sports sites and sweepstakes sports apps are filling the void. Our complete guide to Texas sports betting has you covered with what you need to know, including a complete look at the top options you can legally play with today.
We’ll also cover bonuses and promos that you can claim, and show you how to sign up and register with Texas betting apps. Additionally, we’ll take a complete look at the latest legislative developments and the potential for some progress on Texas sports betting legalization.
Contents
At a Glance: Our Favorite Sign Up Offers for Players in Texas
Best Texas betting sites
The best Texas betting sites provide players with a viable alternative to the traditional sportsbook experience. You can make the call on things like player props, tie together multiple selections like a parlay, and cash in winnings on successful entries. Below, you’ll find a complete look at the best Texas sportsbook alternatives available today.
Underdog Fantasy Texas
Underdog Fantasy is one of the best legal sports betting alternatives available in Texas. This DFS site packs in a huge selection of player props on any given day. There are options available for the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, college sports, and more.
Available on the web, iOS, and Android, Underdog stands out with its diverse styles of gameplay. For player props, you have two main options: Pick’Em Higher/Lower or Pick’Em Rivals. For the former, you choose if a player will go over or under a specific stat.
For Rivals, you can choose a player to outperform a peer in a specific stat. For Underdog pick’em, payouts start at 3x for two correct picks, up to 80x for eight selections that are on the money. There’s also an “insured” option, where you can get a reduced payout for missing a leg.
Underdog also has a wide variety of Best Ball contests, including popular tournaments during the NFL season. There’s also Battle Royale, which brings the draft concept over to a single day. Use the code PROPS while signing up to get a 50% deposit bonus up to a maximum of $1,000.
Pros
- Super smooth gameplay on the web.
- Highly-rated iOS and Android apps.
- Numerous game types to choose from.
- Pick’em style games, similar to player props.
- Responsive and helpful customer service.
Cons
- Limited payment options: Apple Pay, PayPal, online banking, credit/debit cards.
- Battle Royale won’t always fill, and can be loaded with sharp players.
Sleeper fantasy Texas
Sleeper Fantasy is another big deal in Texas and elsewhere across the US. The app is best known for its sleek interface and robust social features, allowing you to compete with friends and track live results together.
You can dive into two main types of contests: Sleeper Picks and Daily Drafts. For the former, you build simple player prop-style entries, predicting whether select players will go higher or lower on a range of in-game stats, and get multiples based on the size of your winning entries.
Daily Drafts puts a spin on traditional fantasy by creating live, real-time mini-drafts. It’s a fun way to get the excitement of a draft without the long commitment of season-long leagues. Sleeper offers coverage of all the major pro and college team sports.
The iOS and Android apps are well-designed, quick to load, and easy to navigate. Use the promo code PROPS when signing up. You’ll get a 100% deposit match for doing so, up to the offer limit of $100.
Pros
- User-friendly and visually appealing app experience.
- Social features make it easy to play with friends.
- Both Picks and live Daily Drafts are available.
- Supports a variety of sports and leagues.
- Multiple payment methods, including Apple Pay and Venmo.
Cons
- Slightly smaller selection of sports compared to some competitors.
- Some users report occasional performance issues on the web and mobile.
Parlayplay Texas
ParlayPlay offers Texas players a straightforward daily fantasy sports experience centered around player prop-style pick’em contests. Instead of drafting full fantasy teams, you build parlays by selecting two to four players from different game matchups.
You predict whether their stats will go over or under the set projections. Payouts start at 3x for two legs and reach up to 10x for a perfect four-leg parlay. It’s a simplified format that’s great for beginners while still providing solid payouts for more experienced players.
Available on both iOS and Android apps, the platform also offers an “insured” option, which pays out a reduced prize if you miss one pick, lowering risk while still keeping the payout attractive. ParlayPlay covers a broad range of sports, including top pro and college offerings.
Alongside regular paid contests, the platform hosts weekly Free2Play competitions where players can participate for free and win real cash prizes. Use the promo code PROPS while registering to play at ParlayPlay, and you’ll get a 100% deposit match up to $100.
Pros
- Simple pick’em gameplay is great for DFS beginners.
- Payouts up to 10x on parlays of up to four picks.
- Wide sports coverage, including emerging options like esports and MMA.
- Weekly Free2Play contests with real cash prizes.
- Loyalty program and referral bonuses add ongoing value.
Cons
- Limited contest variety compared to larger DFS operators.
- Parlays capped at four picks.
Fliff Texas
Fliff is a social sports betting app that has quickly gained popularity among sports fans in Texas. The app transforms sports predictions into a social, play-for-fun game where users make picks on a variety of leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and UFC.
Players earn Fliff Coins for free daily, which they can use to participate in contests and climb leaderboards. You can also play for Fliff Cash, redeemable for real money or gift cards from popular retailers. If you need more coins, various packages are available for purchase.
Fliff’s model is sweepstakes-based, allowing players to play without real money while still having a chance to win prizes. The app is mobile-only, available on both iOS and Android, and features an intuitive interface praised for its smooth navigation and social connectivity.
The platform supports traditional sports betting markets, including moneylines, point spreads, game totals, and parlays, as well as player props and live-betting options. New users who use the promo code PROPS during registration can receive $100 in free coins when they spend $50.
Pros
- Social and competitive gameplay with leaderboards and friend interactions.
- Free daily credits of Fliff Coins, plus real-money cashouts with Fliff Cash.
- Wide variety of traditional sports bets, props, and live-betting options.
- Mobile-friendly apps with high user ratings and a smooth interface.
- Regular promos, including login bonuses, challenges, and referral rewards.
Cons
- Mobile-only platform, no desktop version available.
- Sports selection slightly narrower compared to major sportsbooks.
Thrillz Texas
Thrillzz is a free-to-play social sports platform that offers Texas players an engaging way to participate in sports picks and contests without risking real money. Covering a broad spectrum of sports, Thrillzz offers year-round action and a diverse range of options.
Thrillzz operates using two distinct virtual currencies: Thrillzz Coins, which are earned daily and used to enter fun, free contests, and Thrillzz Sweeps, a sweepstakes currency that players can acquire through gameplay.
Sweeps can be redeemed for Prize Tickets, which are convertible into real money, gift cards, or exclusive Thillzz-branded merchandise. Operating under a sweepstakes model, no purchase is necessary to play, but coin packages are available for purchase.
The app’s integrated live sports widget delivers real-time statistics and insights, while built-in social features like sharing picks and competing in challenges help enhance the experience. If you use the code PROPS when signing up, you’ll get $30 in Sweeps if you spend $10 or more.
Pros
- Extensive sports and markets, including props, parlays, and live bets.
- Real-time stats widget integrated for better picking insights.
- Dual currency system with free play and cash-redeemable sweepstakes.
- Strong community features with Squads, leaderboards, and missions.
- Clean, mobile-optimized apps with solid user support.
Cons
- No real-money wagering. Virtual currencies only.
- Limited redemption options for cash prizes.
Legal online betting options in Texas
Sports betting has yet to be legalized in the state of Texas. There were efforts to change that in the 2023 and 2025 legislative sessions, but both ultimately fell flat. Significant political opposition remains the roadblock, but hopes remain that headway will be made in the future.
For now, those interested in Texas sports betting can explore alternatives such as Daily Fantasy Sports and sweepstakes platforms, both of which are available to play in the state. Both options have their own features and nuances, but offer a similar experience to traditional sportsbooks.
There are traditional DFS sites that offer salary cap lineups, where users can compete for prizes, and newer innovations that focus on fantasy player props. On sweepstakes sites, you play with virtual currencies, not real money, but have a chance to win real prizes.
| Betting Site Name | Type | Welcome Bonus (Briefly) | Key Features/Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underdog Fantasy | Daily Fantasy Sports | Gimme Pick & $1000 Deposit Bonus | Popular DFS platform that offers numerous ways to play, including Pick'em, Best Ball, and Battle Royale. |
| Sleeper Fantasy | Daily Fantasy Sports | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | Top DFS site that features daily drafts and picks entries of 2-8 selections plus individual payout multipliers. |
| ParlayPlay | Daily Fantasy Sports | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | Simple gameplay model where you make 2-4 picks and receive payouts ranging from 3x-10x on winning entries. |
| Fliff | Sweepstakes Gaming | Spend $50, Get $100 in Coins | Seeepstakes sportsbook where you can make predictions on spreads, totals, and more while using virtual currencies. |
| Thrillz | Sweepstakes Gaming | Spend $10+, Get $50 in Sweeps | Offers a range of markets, including props and live betting, under a sweepstakes model with a chance to win real prizes. |
| Novig | Sweepstakes Gaming | Get 1,000 Novig Coins + 5 Novig Cash | Peer-to-peer sweespatakes sportsbooks where you can compete for the chance to win redeemable prizes. |
| Boom Fantasy | Daily Fantasy Sports | Risk-Free Entry up to $100 | Pick'em DFS platform where you can choose over or under on player stats or focus on the top performer from specific matchups. |
| PrizePicks | Daily Fantasy Sports | Place $5, Get $50 Instantly | Leading DFS pick'em site with numerous markets and payout multiples based on your success. |
| Betr Picks | Daily Fantasy Sports | Play $10, Get $30 Free | Play pick'em and peer-to-peer contests in multiple sports, including the NFL, NCAAF, and NBA. |
| Dabble | Daily Fantasy Sports | Get $10 Free On Sign-Up | Choose from multiple sports, make 2-8 fantasy picks, and get payout multiples of 3x-100x for winning entries. |
| Chalkboard Fantasy | Daily Fantasy Sports | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | Sweepstakes DFS site with a range of markets, including props for pro teams and players. |
| WannaParlay | Daily Fantasy Sports | 100% Deposit Match Up To $250 | Growing DFS platform where you can build your parlay-style entries across a range of markets and sports. |
Best Texas sports betting bonuses and promotions
The best Texas sports betting bonuses and promotions are found on Daily Fantasy Sports sites and sweepstakes platforms. The top options offer welcome bonuses for new players, plus a regular selection of promotions for existing users. Below is a comprehensive overview of the best Texas bonuses and promotions.
| Betting Site Name | Welcome Bonus Offer | Minimum Deposit | Key Terms and Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underdog Fantasy | Gimme Pick & $1000 Deposit Bonus | $10 | The 50% deposit match is for up to $1,000 maximum and has a 1x rollover requirement. Use the promo code PROPS while registering to claim |
| Sleeper Fantasy | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | $10 | Use the promo code PROPS to get a 100% deposit match up to $100. Bonus must be played through and is not elgible for withdrawal. |
| ParlayPlay | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | $10 | Get a 100% match on your first deposit up to $100 with the promo code PROPS. The bonus match is not eligble for withdrawal and must be played through. |
| Fliff | Spend $50, Get $100 in Coins | NA | Use the promo code PROPS and spend $50 or more on Fliff Coin package purchases to get $100 in coins and free Fliff Cash. Bonus cash must be played through and is not eligible for redemption. |
| Thrillz | Spend $10+, Get $50 in Sweeps | NA | New users who use the promo code PROPS and spend $10 will get $50 sweeps. Bonus amount is not redeemable and must be played onsite. |
| Novig | Get 1,000 Novig Coins + 5 Novig Cash | NA | New users who use the promo code PROPS1 will get 1,000 Novig Coins plus 5 Novig Cash free. Bonus amount is not available for redemption and must be played through. |
| Boom Fantasy | Risk-Free Entry up to $100 | $10 | Get a risk-free entry of up to $100 by using the promo code PROPS while signing up. If you lose, get back your stake up to the offer limit to use for another entry. |
| PrizePicks | Place $5, Get $50 Instantly | $5 | Use the promo code PROPS1 while signing up. Place a $5 entry and get $50 instantly. The bonus is not withdrawable and must be played onsite. |
| Betr Picks | Play $10, Get $30 Free | $10 | Sign up with the promo code PROPS1. Play $10 to get $30 instantly. The bonus amount must be played through and is not eligible for withdrawal. |
| Dabble | Get $10 Free On Sign-Up | NA | Use the promo code PROPS10 to get a no-deposit bonus of $10. You must play through your bonus, which is not eligible for withdrawal. |
| Chalkboard Fantasy | 100% Deposit Match Up To $100 | Sign up with the promo code PROPS to receive a 100% match on your first deposit up to $100. The amount of the match is not eligible for withdrawal and must be played through. | |
| WannaParlay | 100% Deposit Match Up To $250 | $10 | When you sign up, use the promo code PROPS to get a 100% deposit match up to $250. The match is not withdrawable and must be played on site. |
Picking the best sports betting bonuses in Texas
Before picking the best sportsbook bonuses in Texas, take the time to understand the offer and its parameters. While the offers you come across generally do a great job of explaining what you’ll get, you have to dig in a bit for a full understanding of what’s required.
For example, a bonus might only apply to a specific deposit amount, no more and no less. To realize the full value of such an offer, you may have to meet particular playthrough requirements to realize its full value, such as playing through your deposit 1x.
An offer could only apply to a select prop or event. When you’re ready to claim a bonus or promo, just click through for a quick scan of the terms and conditions. Claim those that align with your preferences and comfort level, and pass on the rest.
Underdog: Gimme pick & $1000 deposit bonus
Underdog Fantasy offers new Texas players a welcome bonus of a generous deposit match. When you sign up using the promo code PROPS and make a first deposit of at least $10, Underdog matches 50% of that deposit up to $1,000 in bonus funds.
Key points to remember:
- Sign up for Underdog Fantasy using promo code PROPS.
- Make a minimum initial deposit of $10 or more.
- Receive a 50% deposit match bonus, up to $1,000 maximum.
- The bonus comes with a 1x rollover on both deposit and bonus amounts.
- Only winnings are withdrawable. Bonus funds themselves are not cashable.
You can deposit via PayPal, Apple Pay, online banking, and credit or debit card. Once your deposit is processed, the bonus is credited, and you can dive into Underdog’s unique DFS contests such as Best Ball, Battle Royale, and Pick’em.
Sleeper: 100% deposit match up to $100
New Sleeper Fantasy players in Texas can take advantage of a solid welcome bonus offering a 100% deposit match up to $100. By signing up with the promo code PROPS and making an initial deposit of at least $10, you’ll receive bonus funds equal to your deposit, up to the offer max.
Key points to remember:
- Sign up for Sleeper Fantasy using promo code PROPS.
- Make an initial deposit of $10 or more.
- Receive a 100% deposit match bonus, up to $100 maximum.
- Account verification and geotargeting are required to claim the bonus.
- Bonus funds are not withdrawable and have a 1x playthrough requirement.
Available deposit methods include bank transfers, Apple Pay, PayPal, and Venmo. Once your deposit is processed, the bonus funds will hit your account and can be used to play Sleeper fantasy contests.
Fliff: Spend $50, get $100 in coins
Fliff offers Texas sports fans a unique welcome bonus that rewards new players with up to $100 in Fliff Coins when they spend $50 purchasing coin packages on the app. You can claim the offer by using the promo code PROPS during signup.
Key points to remember:
- Sign up for Fliff and enter promo code PROPS.
- Spend at least $50 buying Fliff Coin packages (minimum package $0.99).
- Receive up to $100 in bonus Fliff Coins.
- Bonus carries a 1x wagering requirement on deposit plus bonus.
- Open to new players aged 18+ in.
- Fliff Coins have no cash value.
- Fliff Cash can be withdrawn via bank transfers, Skrill, or gift cards.
Fliff’s dual-currency model combines free-to-play Fliff Coins for entertainment and Fliff Cash, which you can redeem for real money and gift cards. There are numerous events and bet types to explore, making it a great alternative to traditional social sportsbooks in Texas.
Is sports betting legal in Texas?
Sports betting is not legal in Texas. There are no traditional online or retail sportsbooks available in the state. The most recent effort to legalize sports betting happened with the introduction of HJR 134 in February 2025. The bill proposed a constitutional amendment to legalize and regulate wagering, but it was not considered further beyond the committee level.
There continues to be strong opposition to legalization in the state Senate, as well as from key leaders, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. For things to move forward, legislation would need to successfully pass both chambers and potentially be put to a vote. Additional progress before the 2027 legislative session seems unlikely.
Who regulates Texas sports betting?
Currently, there is no agency or body in charge of regulating sports betting in Texas. If sports betting becomes legal in the future, detailed regulatory guidelines will be part of the process. This would include determining which state agency or commission would oversee the industry, issue licenses, enforce consumer protections, and monitor operator compliance.
Is there a minimum age for sports betting in Texas?
Because sports betting is not legal in Texas, there is currently no official minimum sports betting age within the state. Legislation that has been proposed in recent years has consistently set the suggested minimum age at 21.
That’s in line with most other legal sports betting states and appears to be the likely target. At Texas sports betting alternatives, such as DFS sites and sweepstakes apps, the majority of platforms set the age requirement at 18+.
Are legal sportsbooks coming to Texas?
No legal sportsbooks are on their way to Texas in the immediate future. However, the situation will change rapidly if and when the state finally gives a green light to legal wagering. As the second-most populous state in the US and one of the few remaining outliers without legal sports betting, top sportsbooks will line up to obtain licenses in Texas.
While we can’t say for sure what the landscape will look like in terms of licensing and who is eligible, it’s safe to say that all of the major players are candidates for Texas sportsbooks. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and other leading operators would most certainly love to add Texas to their list of states in which they are licensed to operate.
Texas legal sports betting timeline
The Texas legal sports betting timeline is progressing at a much slower pace than in other states. While the U.S. Supreme Court opened the door for legal sports betting in 2018, Texas has not followed suit, as many other states have, in authorizing sportsbooks. Here’s a look at the most crucial developments to date in the push for regulated sports wagering in the state.
- May 14, 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, allowing each state to decide whether to legalize sports betting.
- May 31, 2021: All sports betting and casino gaming bills pending in the Texas Legislature officially died without a vote.
- February 6, 2023: Four online sports betting bills were filed in the House and Senate, including HB 1942, HJR 102, SB 715, and SJR 39, with backing from major sports teams and the Texas Sports Betting Alliance.
- April 3, 2023: Two gambling-related bills pass a House committee but stall before reaching the floor. Momentum for sports betting gains some ground but ultimately fizzles by the end of the session.
- May 29, 2023: The 2023 Legislative Session concludes with all pending gambling measures dead until at least 2025.
- January 14, 2025: The Texas Legislature reconvenes. Sports betting remains a hot topic but faces uphill political battles, notably in the Senate and from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
- February 5, 2025: Governor Greg Abbott states he has “no problem” with regulated gambling if approved by the Legislature.
- February 12, 2025: State Rep. Sam Harless files House Joint Resolution 134, aiming to put sports betting on the ballot via constitutional amendment.
- June 2, 2025: The Texas legislative session officially ends with all pending gambling bills declared dead. The earliest possible reconsideration will be in 2027, when the Legislature meets again, unless a special session is called.
Texas sports betting market projections
The Texas sports betting market is projected to be massive, if and when legalization finally happens. Based on 2024 population estimates, the state has over 31 million residents, ranking second in the entire US, behind only California (39 million+).
According to recent forecasts, over $6 billion in unregulated betting handle is wagered annually, while legalization could lead to a direct impact of $360 million in tax revenue. Texas could quickly become a booming legal sports betting market, and potentially the largest in the US.
What would the taxation and licensing structure look like?
The taxation and licensing structure for a legal Texas sports betting market would be fully established before it could go live. Absent pending legislation, we won’t have exact numbers, but previous attempts at pushing the matter forward provide some clues on what it could look like.
In 2021, HB 2070 proposed a tax rate of 10% on gross gambling revenue, a $500,000 application fee, and a $50,000 retail license fee. The bill also required operators to partner with the state’s pro sports teams or horse tracks, with each licensee entitled to one online skin.
Texas mobile betting apps
Texas mobile betting apps provide residents with access to the top sports betting options available in the state. On the DFS side, options such as Underdog and Sleeper are available through iOS and Android apps, while sweepstakes apps include Fliff and Thrillz.
You can sign up and register directly from your mobile device, and then continue to enjoy the convenience of playing on the go throughout the state. Here’s how the top Texas mobile betting apps rate according to real users.
| Betting App | iOS App Rating | Android App Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Underdog Fantasy | 4.8 | 4.6 |
| Sleeper Fantasy | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| ParlayPlay | 4.5 | 4.4 |
| Fliff | 4.8 | 4.8 |
| Thrillz | 4.4 | 4.5 |
| Novig | 4.9 | 4.7 |
| Boom Fantasy | 4.6 | 4.5 |
| PrizePicks | 4.8 | 4.4 |
| Betr Picks | 4.6 | 4.6 |
| Dabble | 4.7 | 4.2 |
| Chalkboard Fantasy | 4.6 | 4.5 |
| WannaParlay | 4.6 | NA |
How to sign up and bet in Texas
Signing up to bet in Texas takes just a few minutes with the top DFS and sweepstakes options. Registration is straightforward, and you can complete the process on either your desktop or mobile device. Use the steps below as a guide to get up and running.
- Visit the website or download the app for your chosen DFS or sweepstakes platform.
- Click “sign up” or “register” to begin creating your account.
- Enter the required personal information, which typically includes your name, email address, date of birth, and home address.
- Set a username and password of your choice.
- Opt in to any available promotions or enter a promo code for a new user bonus.
- Confirm that you’re of legal age, verify your details, and accept the terms and conditions.
- Access the cashier section to add funds for DFS sites.
- On sweepstakes sites, you can play with your welcome bonus right away and purchase coin packages when you want to replenish.
- Browse available fantasy contests or sports prediction games and enter your selections.
- Make your lineup picks or entries based on the contest requirements.
- Once contests settle, any DFS winnings or prizes can be withdrawn through the site’s supported methods.
- Sweeps Coin winnings can be redeemed for real prizes once you meet playthrough requirements and have a minimum balance, which varies by platform.
Can you bet on sports in person in Texas?
No, you can’t bet on sports in person in Texas yet either. While not guaranteed, any future sports betting legislation that legalizes wagering as a whole is likely to include a retail component. There are three tribal casinos and a trio of horse racing tracks, all of which could be considered for retail locations.
In other states, such as Arizona, sportsbooks can partner with pro teams, leagues, and approved venues. If that happens in Texas, there are plenty of options to consider, as the state is home to teams in all of the major pro sports. The allocation of brick-and-mortar licenses could prove to be a big deal if legalization ever moves past the goal line.
What sports and events are available at Texas betting alternatives?
All of the major sports and events are available at Texas betting alternatives. The top options cover the bases, featuring top professional and collegiate leagues. You can also find coverage of international and individual events, but niche sport coverage is typically lacking. You’ll find markets that resemble the player props and parlays you’ll find at traditional sportsbooks, as well as other options.
Pro sports leagues you can bet on in Texas
The top pro sports leagues are all available for betting in Texas. The state is a sports hotbed, boasting popular teams across the four major sports leagues: the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB. In addition to the top attention grabbers, DFS and sweepstakes sites also provide coverage and contests surrounding Soccer, Golf, UFC, Tennis, NASCAR, and more.
At many DFS apps, the focus is on player stats, which are akin to player props. You can make the call on whether a player is over or under for various players. There are also traditional lineup-based versions, where you build a team under a salary cap, as well as season-long drafts for particular sports. Over at sweepstakes sites, you’ll find moneylines, spreads, and totals among various other options.
Betting on college sports in Texas
You can bet on college sports in Texas at top DFS and sweepstakes sites. College basketball and football are huge attractions for both regular-season and postseason action. When it’s time for tentpole events like the College Football Playoffs and March Madness, interest soars.
At DFS platforms, there are traditional lineup-based contests, as well as the pick’em format, where you can build entries based on player stats. Sweepstakes sportsbooks, where users play with virtual currencies, offer more options, including moneylines and spreads.
What else is available for wagering?
There are other options available for wagering in Texas. However, it’s not quite as abundant a selection as you’ll find at a traditional sportsbook. If it’s a major competition, like the World Cup, Olympics, or a highly publicized Boxing match, you’ll typically find some options.
Top online sportsbooks go deep with markets for sports that don’t capture much attention here in the US, like Cricket or Rugby. That’s not the case at most DFS sites. Some sweepstakes sportsbooks may go a little deeper, but the biggest focus is on popular games and events.
Popular local teams to bet on in Texas
Texas is a fantastic sports market with several popular local teams to bet on. Naturally, top in-state players and squads are popular attractions at DFS and sweepstakes sites. At times, you’ll find special promos or offers with local tie-ins, such as a featured player prop entry for a top game featuring a Texas club. Below is a look at the top teams that grab attention in Texas.
Professional teams:
- Dallas Cowboys: One of the most storied franchises in football, the Cowboys continue to command massive support and wagering interest each season.
- Houston Texans: Fresh off two straight AFC South titles, the Texans have a passionate fan base as they continue the quest for greater heights.
- Dallas Mavericks: A 2024 NBA Finals appearance spiked interest even further, and hopes are high for top overall draft pick Cooper Flagg to lead another resurgence.
- San Antonio Spurs: The glory days are in the rearview mirror, but the club with five titles on the resume remains a huge draw in the Lone Star State.
- Houston Rockets: After a heartbreaking seven-game loss to the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Playoffs, the Rockets are aiming for bigger things.
- Dallas Stars: A perennial playoff contender, the Stars have made three straight trips to the conference finals, coming up short each time.
- Texas Rangers: Interest went through the roof after their first World Series win in 2023, with the club maintaining an incredibly loyal and passionate fanbase.
- Houston Astros: They’ve reached the postseason each year since 2017, a span that includes a record of 2-2 in the World Series.
- Austin FC and FC Dallas: Soccer’s popularity is booming, with these two franchises satisfying the local demand as part of the MLS.
- Dallas Wings: Interest in the WNBA continues to reach new heights. The Wings are trying to rebound from 2024’s 9-31 mark.
College teams:
- Texas Longhorns: UT is a perennial powerhouse in football and a major force in basketball, with a dedicated statewide following.
- Texas A&M Aggies: A college football mainstay with one of the most iconic home fields in the nation at Kyle Field.
- Baylor Bears: Members of the Big 12, the Bears are regularly competitive in both college basketball and football.
- Texas Tech Red Raiders: The program has a smaller national profile than the state’s bigger schools, but a massive local following.
- TCU Horned Frogs: A surprising CFP run in 2022 put TCU on the map nationally, and only helped local interest soar.
- SMU Mustangs: SMU’s football team achieved a milestone College Football Playoff berth in 2024, boosting its national profile.
- University of Houston Cougars: The basketball program is regularly in the mix and fresh off a two-point loss to Florida in the March Madness finale.
Texas responsible gambling resources
Responsible gambling resources are available in Texas. While traditional sportsbooks are not yet legal and available, alternative platforms such as Daily Fantasy Sports and sweepstakes sites encourage players to always play responsibly.
The Texas Lottery Commission and organizations like the Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling also promote the importance of playing safely and within your means. If you or someone you know needs assistance or guidance on responsible gambling, help is available.
Self-exclusion programs
Self-exclusion is a voluntary program that allows players to take more control over their gaming activities. You can restrict your access for a set timeframe, voluntarily exclude yourself from playing on platforms, and close your account on a temporary or permanent basis.
All Texas sports betting alternatives, including Daily Fantasy Sports sites and sweepstakes sportsbooks, offer responsible gambling tools that can be accessed directly through their websites or apps. If you require additional assistance, please contact the platform’s customer support directly.
Limits you can employ
You can take further control of your play by employing limits. Daily Fantasy Sports and sweepstakes platforms allow players to set deposit, spending, and time limits. For instructions, visit your account settings. If you need assistance, contact customer support.
These tools help individuals manage how much money or time they spend, reducing the risk of problem gambling. Options to take a timeout or limit participation can further support healthy boundaries and responsible play, both of which are encouraged by leading wagering sites.
Texas gambling helplines & counseling
Texans can access a variety of gambling counseling and support services if they or a loved one is struggling with gambling problems. Key resources include:
- Texas Lottery: On the “Play Responsibly” page, you’ll find links to numerous resources and guidance on where you can get help and find support.
- National Council on Problem Gambling: You can visit the website for live chat and resources, call 1-800-GAMBLER, or text 800GAM for 24/7 assistance.
You can also find direct links to responsible gambling resources on the websites and apps for the top DFS and sweepstakes platforms that are available in Texas.
Conclusion
Texas remains one of the largest states without legal sports betting. Those interested in wagering must turn to legal alternatives such as Daily Fantasy Sports sites and sweepstakes sportsbook apps, both of which have become increasingly popular in the Lone Star State. There are various ways to play, including pick’em style games that are similar to player props.
The sheer size and widespread interest in sports point to the potential for Texas to be one of the largest markets for wagering in the country. Efforts to move sports betting legislation forward have continually hit roadblocks. As of now, it appears that the earliest chance of a green light will come in the 2027 legislative session.
